Places to visit near Kolkata is something that people are searching actively for a while. Kolkata or the “City of Joy” is a great place to visit in India mainly because of the short breaks close to the city. West Bengal is a unique state that stretches all the way from the Himalayas to the Bay of Bengal. There are so many landscapes and cultures to explore that starts from Darjeeling and ends to the vast mangrove swamps of Sundarbans.
Escaping the daily hustles and bustles of the city is easy when you are staying in Kolkata. The areas surrounding Kolkata offer a range of things for tourists such as beaches, forests, historical sites, lakes and even a national park. If you’re looking for a quick break away from the city, then check out these 18 places located 50 km to 200 km away from Kolkata for a little rest and relaxation.
Places to visit near Kolkata: Under 50 km
1. Salt Lake City
If you’re looking for a quick break to escape the chaos of the city, then take a day trip to Salt Lake City. The area is beautiful, green and the air is cool and crisp. You can start your day with a morning walk at Salt Lake Central Park that flaunts rich flora and fauna. Apart from relaxing, this place also has Nicco Park, which has a number of rides that make for a great day out.
- Distance from Kolkata: 10 km
- Traveller’s Tip: You can go boating in the lake surrounding the Central Park (Timings: 10:00 AM – 5:30 PM)
- Nicco Park Timings: 10:30 AM to 6:30 PM
- Nicco Park Ticket Price: Rs. 910 for a complete package with water rides
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2. Shibpur
Shibpur is a city in the Howrah district of West Bengal that has a port, Shalimar Port, that was running even during the Mughal Era in India and was connected to the rest of the country with Grand Trunk Road. This area also boasts of the Acharya Jagadish Chandra Bose Indian Botanical Garden where you can spot all kinds of flora and fauna from around the world. It’s a great place to get in touch with nature.
- Distance from Kolkata: 11 km
- Traveller’s Tip: Do make sure to see the Great Banyan tree at the botanical garden which is believed to be at least 250 years old.
- Botanical Garden Timings: 10 AM to 5 PM
- Entry Fee: Rs. 10 per person (Indians) Rs. 100 per person (Foreigner)
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3. Achipur
Achipur is a hamlet on the banks of river Hooghly and 300 years the village became an active settlement of Chinese people in India. On Chinese New Year’s Day and for the rest of the month, Achipur is visited by people to enjoy a mini Chinatown. It has Chinese Temple where people gather to celebrate the new year. The Chinese Temple is one of the main attractions of the place. You can see the Chinese wooden carvings and Chinese deities, Khuda and Khudi. After that, you can enjoy the view of the river from the Budge Budge Ferry Ghat which is historically important as Swami Vivekananda landed here when he returned to India from his Chicago trip.
- Distance: 31 km
- Best Time to Visit: February (Chinese New Year)
- Traveller’s Tip: You can easily spend a weekend here if you enjoy history
Also, Read: 26 Thrilling Weekend Getaway Near Kolkata
4. Diamond Harbour
This stunning location is where the river Hooghly meets the Bay of Bengal. Some of the most enjoyable activities here include having a picnic or taking a boat ride during the sunset. There are also a few restaurants nearby that serve good seafood. You can get here by taking a bus or cab as it is so close by.
- Distance: 50 km
- Traveller’s Tip: Do visit the abandoned Portuguese fort nearby
Check out: 16 One-day Trip from Kolkata That You Shouldn’t Miss
Places to visit near Kolkata: 50-100 km from Kolkata
1. Chandannagar
Chandannagar, given its mixed history, has influences from its past rulers such as the Nawabs, English and French. Here you can take in the impressive Anglo-Indian architecture and cuisine with European influences, that’s all reminiscent of its past. Some of the best places to see include the Sacred Heart Church and Chandannagar Museum.
- Distance from Kolkata: 53 km
- Places of Interest: Chandannagar Museum, Patal Bari, Chandannagar Strand, KMDA Park, Nandaduala Temple, and Sacred Heart Church.
- Best Time to Visit: October to February
2. Tarkeshwar
Do not miss this beautiful and peaceful pilgrimage site located on the banks of the river Ganges. Located close to Kolkata, you can either drive or take a bus here. Some of the attractions apart from the impressive Tarkeshwar Temple include taking a dip in the Dudh Pukur Tank and visiting the Buddha Temple.
- Distance from Kolkata: 62 km
- Traveller’s Tip: Mahashivratri is a popular religious festival celebrated here.
- Temple Timing: 5:30 am–1:30 pm and 4 pm –7:15 pm
For more information about the best time to visit the temple, check out the West Bengal Government tourism website.
3. Taki
If you want to get a sense of the roots of Bengal then visit this spot that boasts of natural beauty and clean air. This little village is located on the banks of the river Ichamati and is worth visiting for a day. Some of the attractions include a visit to Machranga Island.
- Distance from Kolkata: 67 km
- Traveller’s Tip: Taki is well connected by roads and railways. But the best way to reach Taki is by road as it is only a 2-hour drive from Kolkata.
- Best Time to Visit: October to February
4. Piyali Islands
If you don’t want to make the journey to the Sundarbans, then stop by this perfect little getaway. After a scenic short drive from Kolkata, this region offers serene beauty, a great landscape and clean air. There are a number of trekking and boating options available here. If you love nature, don’t forget to go bird watching.
- Distance from Kolkata: 70 km
- Traveller’s Tip: The best way to get here is by car
- Best Time to Visit: October to March
5. Golpatar Jungle
As the name suggests, it is a forest filled with Golpatar trees. You can also see the famous Sundari Trees here. This less known place to visit in West Bengal is best for trekking or hiking trip. Due to no known overnight stay options, it is best for a day trip from Kolkata. Located on the fringes of the Bangladeshi border, here you can enjoy boat rides on the nearby river. Do make sure to carry some ID as you may need to show it to enter some parts of the forest.
- Distance from Kolkata: 80 km
- How to Reach: To get here, take a local train from Sealdah to Taki Railway Station
6. Haldia
This is a famous river port but travellers will be happy to know it has a lot to offer nature and heritage enthusiasts. The people here are very hospitable and here you can check out the Mahishadal Rajbari and Gopalajew Temple, spend some time along the marine drive, to get great views of the dock and port.
- Distance from Kolkata: 91 km
- How to Reach: You get daily trains from Kolkata to Haldia
- Places of Interest: Mahishadal Rajbari, Goplajew Temple, Marine Drive, Sataku, Haldia Dock and Port, Tamluk Rajbari, Muktidham Temple, Balughata Riverside Sunset Point, Maynagarh, Matangini Statue, and Ramjew Temple.
Places to visit near Kolkata: 100-150 km from Kolkata
1. Sagar Island
This beach is located where the River Gange meets the Bay of Bengal, and this area is also host to the second largest festival in the world, the Gangasagar Fair. It is held annually in January. Sagar Island offers a nice getaway and also has quite a few historical attractions, making it a good weekend getaway.
- Distance: 107 km
- Places of Interest: Other attractions include the Sagar Lighthouse, Onkarnath and Kamil Muni temples
- Best Time to Visit: October to January
2. Sunderbans
The Sunderbans is a great weekend trip for those who love the great outdoors. This is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the national park is spread over 54 tiny islands and is home to a variety of flora and fauna. Here you will be able to spot the Royal Bengal Tiger, spotted deer, jungle fowl and Siberian ducks.
- Distance from Kolkata: 109 km
- Places of Interest: The Sajnekhali Bird Sanctuary, Sagar Lighthouse and Dublar Char Island are worth visiting
- Best Time to Visit: September to March
This historic location is under a four-hour drive from Kolkata. The name of this holy town translates into nine islands and offers nearly 200 temples to visit. Here you can talk a walk through the beautiful winding forest paths, enjoy bird watching and relish some traditional local cuisine. ISKCON Temple, Radha Rani Temple and Purbasthali Bird are some sites to see.
- Distance from Kolkata: 124 km
- Best Time to Visit: October to March
Read More: 12 Famous Temples in Kolkata That You Must-Visit
4. Bakkhali
Bakkhali is located close to the Sundarbans and it offers a lovely getaway that’s close to the city. This is one of the most secluded white sand beaches in India and boasts of a 7 km long beach. It is the perfect way to spend a weekend – don’t miss catching the sunset on the beach.
- Distance from Kolkata: 126 kilometres
- Places of Interest: Other attractions include the Crocodile and Mangrove forest and Benfish Harbour.
- Best Time to Visit: October to March
5. Bardhaman
This small town is situated near the Damodar River and has taken off in tourism in the recent past thanks to its nature and religious sites. Some of the must-see places here include the lush deer park, the stunning temples and even the lake park. There is a lot of culture to take in and we recommend you spend at least 2 days here.
- Distance from Kolkata: 103 km
- Best Time to Visit: October to March
Places to visit near Kolkata: 150-200 km from Kolkata
1. Santiniketan
This is a popular spot to visit among tourists and locals alike. This town has a very young and modern vibe to it, and since you will find a lot of students here. Some of the must-visit attractions include Rabindra Bhavana Museum, Upasna Ghar, Tagore’s Ashram and Khoai Mela.
- Distance from Kolkata: 161 km
- Best Time to Visit: August to March
2. Bishnupur
A drive from Kolkata to Bishnupur will not disappoint thanks to the hassle-free roads. One of the main attractions to see is the Bishnupur Museum, Jor Bangla Temple and Rasmanch, a terracotta-based pyramidal tower, which is an impressive structure.
- Distance from Kolkata: 180 km
- Traveller’s Tip: This is a good place to pick up handwoven saris
Also, Read: 30 Beautiful Religious Places That You Must-Visit in India
18. Digha
This is a short drive from Kolkata and makes for a great short break as there are plenty of things to do here. There are a number of water sports to be enjoyed here and the cuisine is surely worth trying. Some of the places you have to check out include Digha beach and Marine Aquarium.
- Distance: 184 km
- Best Time to Visit: October to May
For a comfortable stay, find Treebo Hotels in Digha.
Kolkata has many places close by that are great weekend options for tourists to visit. No matter what you’re looking for, these towns and villages will not disappoint with their rich heritage, culture, sites and nature. So, if you’re visiting Kolkata don’t forget to check out the nearby spots. Do let us know in the comment section below your favourite places to visit near Kolkata.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Places to Visit Near Kolkata:
What are the nearby places to visit near Kolkata Airport?
You can visit Science City, Eco Park. Mother’s Wax Museum, Dakshineswar Kali Temple, Jorasanko Thakur Bari, Victoria Memorial, and Maidan near Kolkata Airport.
What are the places to visit near Kolkata on weekends?
You can visit Bakkhali, Tajpur, Ravangla, Shantiniketan, Kurseong, Mandarmani, Rinchenpong, Sunderbans, Bishnupur, and Mayapur near Kolkata on a weekend.
What are the places to visit near Kolkata in September?
In September, you can visit Mukutmonipur, Mandarmani, Maithan, Jhargram, Santiniketan, Bakreswar and Tajpur near Kolkata.
What are the places to visit near Kolkata for 1 night?
You can visit Bardhaman, Santiniketan, Tajpur, Mandarmani, Digha, Bakkhali, Mayapur, and Chandannagar.
What are the places to visit near Kolkata in August?
You can visit Diamond Harbour, Tarkeshwar, Khanyan, Golpata Forest, Haldia, Sundarbans, Bardhaman in August near Kolkata.
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